Senior Associate Scientist, mRNA Automation

Company Overview:

Strand Therapeutics is a clinical stage biotechnology company utilizing synthetic biology to genetically program mRNA to deliver truly revolutionary immunotherapies to patients.

Building on the idea of creating smart therapies based on Boolean logic circuits, Strand was started by biological engineers working together at MIT who were seeking to apply the concept of the emerging field of mRNA therapeutics. Strand's technology is therapeutic-area and mRNA modality agnostic where therapeutic proteins are encoded onto modified, self-replicating, or circular mRNA backbones which in turn are programmed with cell-specific sensors and circuits.

Today, Strand has established three platforms with one clinical stage asset and several programs in preclinical development as well as early discovery. Our lead program, STX-001, is currently being evaluated in a phase 1 clinical trial for solid tumors. Our corporate headquarters is located in the Fenway district of Boston, Massachusetts.

Become the next standout single strand!

Job Summary:

Strand is looking for people who have the enthusiasm and motivation to be a highly contributing member of a small but extremely productive team. This opportunity will offer the employee the ability to work in a matrix-based environment and be a part of the future strategy of the company.

We are looking for a highly motivated candidate for the role of Senior Associate Scientist of mRNA Automation for the mRNA Automation team of the mRNA Programming department. The primary responsibilities of the role will be to independently coordinate and execute the production, QC, and inventory of DNA and RNA across multiple teams and projects using automated platforms. The candidate will also be expected to run routine NGS plasmid sequencing protocols. The ideal candidate has experience independently executing molecular biology wet bench techniques using automated equipment such as liquid handlers, colony pickers, platewashers, and magnetic bead platforms. This role will be highly collaborative and cross-functional, and have many opportunities to develop a broad set of technical skills.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Executing wet bench techniques involved in mRNA production from cloning to QC using automated equipment
• Executing routine NGS plasmid sequencing protocols
• Collaborating with scientific staff across research to deliver projects on time with clear transparency
• Collaborating with multiple teams to develop robust documentation system
• Find opportunities to improve and optimize processes
• Maintaining inventory of reagents and materials
• Maintaining equipment in good working order

Qualifications:

• B.S. with 3-5+ years of directly related experience. Degree emphasis in STEM fields preferred. 
• This position requires conducting laboratory experiments, excellent documentation review and writing skills, and the flexibility to work on multiple projects as needed.
• Capacity to learn new material quickly.
• Knowledge of Hamilton systems and other automated platforms preferred.
• Basic knowledge of Illumina sequencing preferred.
• Experience with cell culture and cell based assays a plus.
• Track record of completing deliverables within specified timelines.
• Independently motivated, thinks outside the box, and good problem-solving ability.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Able to multi-task in an extremely fast-paced environment with changing priorities. 

Strand offers a fast-paced, entrepreneurial, team-focused small company environment. We also offer a top-notch benefits package (health, dental, life, open PTO, onsite lunch catering, commuter support and more) and work/life flexibility and integration. Being part of the Strand team allows you to become part of a small team that supports professional development while working together to meet Strand’s goals. 

Strand Therapeutics is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, religion, national or ethnic origin, disability, protected veteran status or any other basis protected by applicable law. Strand does not accept unsolicited resumes from any source other than directly from candidates.

Job Type: Full-time

Salary: commensurate with role and experience